Question about sub-q heparin

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Specializes in Maternal - Child Health.

I have 2 sources that state that it is recommended that the needle NOT be changed between drawing up and administering heparin. Why not? I thought it was preferable not to inject with a needle that was "coated" with heparin.

Thanks.

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Specializes in ER, Med-surg, ICU.

HMMMMM...Our heparin for SQ injection is in prefilled syringes, therefore all we need to do is attach the needle and give the injection. But I will try to find this information for you...

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Specializes in Utilization Management.

Could you post your sources? I thought the same thing.

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Specializes in Maternal - Child Health.

The Mosby 2008 Drug Reference book as well as handouts from the refresher course I'm taking, which is offered by a major university medical center.

I'll have to check with my instructor when I see her on Friday.

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Specializes in ER, Med-surg, ICU.

I couldn't find anything online about this, just that the syringes are generally predrawn syringes for SQ injection. I will look further at work tonight.

Just make sure that you are not using the heparin for catheter lock flushes, these have to be drawn up out of a multi use vial and the dosages are different. the reason I have added this is because I have seen it done.

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